The Cost of College – Check out financial supports available.
The financial burden on students and adults who are planning to or already attending college is a huge source of stress in many households. While the investment in education provides long term benefits, in the short and medium term the financial pressure can be felt by parents, guardians, partners and families. The cost of fees, accommodation, living expenses, travel are substantial, so it is important to check out the various financial supports that are available to those embarking on college courses at any age and stage.
Grants
SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) is Ireland’s single national awarding authority for all higher and further education grants. SUSI offers funding to eligible students in approved full-time third-level education in Ireland and also, in some cases, funding for students studying outside of Ireland .Support is available to all types of students, from school leavers to mature students returning to education. The priority date for new applicants to SUSI is July 8th and while you can still apply for funding after these dates, students who submit their application by this date will receive priority processing in autumn. All details and guides to filling out the application can be found on www.susi.ie
Back to Education Allowance
The BTEA is a scheme for unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities who are getting certain payments from the Department of Social Protection. The allowance can be paid to people who wish to pursue approved second or third level courses of education. BTEA is not an unemployment payment and is paid instead of the Social Welfare Payment. For details see https://www.gov.ie/en/service/418e3f-back-to-education-allowance/
Scholarships & Bursaries
There are numerous scholarships and bursaries available to support students. The Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) will have details of those that are offered through the college themselves, some of which are based on academic performance but many others across areas such as sport, the arts, entrepreneurship, volunteerism etc. There are also bursaries offered by industry partners, companies and organisations that are specific to an area of study for example engineering, pharmacy, STEM. Deadlines for applications and eligibility criteria vary so consult the relevant college websites for details.
The 1916 Bursary Fund is provided to students coming an economically disadvantaged background and also be from a particular target group that are under-represented in Higher Education. Applications for a 1916 Bursary should be made directly to the higher education institutions. Further information on the application process is available from the website or access office of the institution in which you intend to study. The Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD) is available through Access offices in the colleges to ensure students with disabilities have the necessary assistance and equipment to enable them access, fully participate in and successfully complete their chosen course of study. The Student Assistance Fund provides financial support to full or part-time students who are experiencing financial difficulties while attending college. Students can apply for the Student Assistance Fund to help with either temporary or ongoing financial difficulties by contacting the Student Services Office in the college. A range of other bursaries and scholarships are available from the Department of Education and Skills including the All-Ireland Scholarships and the Third Level Bursary Scheme as well as other organisations. All details can be found on https://hea.ie/funding-governance-performance/funding/student-finance/other-finance-bursaries-scholarships/
Financial Institutions
Many credit unions offer education loans to members, either for the support of members themselves or for a son or daughter. These loans cater for the needs of members applying or further or higher education and postgraduate studies, including mature students who are returning to education. Student bursaries are also made available to credit union members annually so make sure to check out the application dates in you local branch. Banks often provide personal loans or overdrafts to students at preferential rates and will have further information on their websites.
The cost of education is huge factor and sometimes a barrier for people starting in or returning to college so it is important to research all the possible financial supports available. If you are happy with your course of study and where it can take you in your future career, then it is an investment worth making!